Monday, October 20, 2008

Where've we been you ask? We'd tell you but then we'd have to employ you, and given the present climate, we're keeping things consolidated here! I can divulge a secret or two: we've been leveraging every ounce of our intellectual curiosity to contribute to the modern world’s creative disruption, and a few things have appealed to us as must do’s: catalyze, question, ideate.

Let's roll, shall we?

Today, while the MSM frantically pontificates on implications of the brilliantly outlined Powell endorsement, we divulged our thoughts as they occurred and segued to juicier periphery matters: the capital generating genius that is Obama & Co. There's been alot of chatter on the Presidential Candidate being a socialist, (along with other ‘ist's, as it were) but even as we cringe on certain aspects of his corporate taxation policy, there’s something to be blogged for a nexus of individuals who left no resource or market sector unturned, to generate a mouth-watering $150 Million dollars in a single, recession-riddled month.-That one evidently knows a thing or two about capital and how to effectively allocate it.

We, at the lotus nexus, continue to ideate on just where our brand potential peaks—and it too is limitless. This is what innovation generates. From recession-inspired fashion lines to retail profit swells (per Stella McCartney and Hilfiger) and capitalizing on global markets a la Marc Jacobs latest retail launch in Spain today—tumultuous times offer us a choice; do or be done. Later for that depression talk, we’re ecstatic about every thing this new age will represent for those of us who catalyze like icons, question to intrigue, and ideate with passion: http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/08_38/b4100052741280.htm.—

Wednesday, February 07, 2007

Welcome Sophistiquets and Sophistiquettes! Within this issue, we’ve channeled all that is righteous and luxurious in the world, in prime INQUE fashion.—Catering to you and only you, it is our desire that you ‘life + style’ it with an open mind; click to discover what newness awaits you beyond your norms, and as you immerse yourself in ‘fashion +beauty’, do experiment with a few nouveau options for personal enhancement.—We have every intention of seeing you Spring-ready(!)...and yes, we’ve finally acquiesced to your requests to see us...

…We also dug deep into our style enclaves, to bring balance to your desired dose of ‘swagger’ with Feng Shui essentials generally lost on most…What we’ve found however, is that a significant premise within the culture of our firm is revealed in this issue’s 'Theory of Elevation'. --There is no greater truth than the one whispering to you (or shouting at you) to come into your own; on your own terms. And just when you thought we’ve absolutely spoiled you rotten, trust that we indulge in our personal passions each time we create, and allocate, quality work for your sophisticated interpretation.

In Style and In Truth,

Nat and Trish

life + style:

the sophisticate's escape

You know us to be vigilant proponents of indulgence—this is not simply to satisfy the required exertion of narcissism approved by our shrinks.

For even the healthiest of Sophisticates, getting away and enjoying a new aspect of the world is what keeps us sharp, energized and dynamic. For these purpose alone, you owe yourself—and the world, a personal time-out excursion. Now, we don’t care where you go, but you’ve got to go somewhere! Take a look at these resources, print (and pocket ) your INQUE subscription, turn off your Crackberry and indulge your inner-escapist…

iExplorer:Imagine taking an adventurous vacation anywhere in the world of your choice…The entire trip is customized and includes private tour guides and drivers. Well, dream no more Sophisticates, such a thing exists and awaits your indulgence. From the Far East to the Middle East to the Midwest of the U.S. to the South Pacific or the Antarctica, there are no limits to destinations. Each day your itinerary is tailored to perfectly fit your desires, expectations and lifestyle preferences. The Pyramids of Egypt tour currently ranks first on the list of best selling tour with an Adventure in Argentina and the Great Wall of China tours filling out the top three. The travel industry is quickly accepting iExplore as a clear industry leader and gets the black lotus mark of approval!

The Pivate Luxury Group: For the elite Sophisticate travelers with discriminating tastes, The Private Luxury Group—is the quintessential travel emporium/consortium site. Catering to those who are well aware of who they are and where they deserve to be, this is where Disposable Income comes to play.--Of course most Sophisticates will find this all to be self-applicable, but please allow us to clarify: if your travel expectations call for you to take the private yacht, to your private-er villa, via the private-est of jets (pardon--indulging our inner-silly), than you’ve just arrived at the ‘Mecca’ of destination sites (www. private-luxury-group.com)…

Travelwizard.com: For the lover--or cheater in you, (we don’t pass judgement, just resources…) This destination site is ideal for any romantic getaway; especially that which requires participants to proceed with caution and absolute privacy—the lotus’ present travelwizard.com. Conde Nast gives this site the cool nod of approval, as do we. It’s as though it challenges the Sophisticate: “what’s your pleasure?” and the selection ranges from the Coral Coasts for collusive romance, or to your fantasy Fiji Island escape; this is where your conscience, as well as your inhibitions may give in to options galore!

on the rise:

DeezShirts- fashion's double entandre

There are tee shirt lines and then there are cultural movements; the premier of which you’ll find decorated on DeezShirts. Just when you thought the tee-shirt craze had exhausted itself, the creators of this urban couture line have revitalized the look of social messaging with irresistible candor and style...

Introducing Justo Garcia Cruz and Manny A. Montilla: the creative and business genius that is DeezShirts. The debonair duo challenges fashion’s elite to soothe their cerebral side, allowing both the fashionable and culturally conscious to, at last, be satiated.

Known for stopping enamored passers-by­--from NY to Miami--dead in their inquisitive tracks, these two Urban Sophisticates have teamed up to give the streets, and the runway, what it’s been craving: trend setting wear for the Fashion Intellectual.

Dominican born, American bred, childhood friends Garcia and Montilla, harnessed unabashed cultural pride for their homeland along with that of others. Garcia, the creator of the movement, utters succinctly “I just want to represent culture. That’s me.”—And be it African-American to Cape Verde or Haiti to Boston’s affectionate ‘Beantown’,--DeezShirts is the ‘it’ brand; representing the melting pot that is you!

The line’s appeal lives in its custom look, fit and message. Hardly reminiscent of pieces sold at the last ethnic festival you graced, the cotton couture resonates high-end casual wear strictly for Style’s über-progressive. DeezShirts has set the precedent for what is and will be, the Visceral Fashion Movement. With fresh new looks encompassing the myriad of ethnicities we all comprise, their continual innovation promises a vogue clothing line that redefines ‘edge’ (think DeezKicks, DeezSweats, DeezBoxers…)…Their ascension is proving limitless.

Who: Justo Garcia Cruz, Manuel A. MontillaWhat: http://www.deezshirts.com/ + arriving at upscale boutiques soonWhere: Your wardrobe if you’re ready, SophisticateWhy: Not above personalized delivery and certainly not beyond throwing a highly-anticipated 2007 Spring Launch Party (we’ll keep you in the know); the likes of which will challenge urban glitterati everywhere to step up their social/fashion game.

fashion + beauty:

top must-haves for the urban glitterati

You’ve asked and we answered: here we present to you the smoothest, shiniest, longest lasting, nicest smelling, pain relieving, tummy-tucking, beauty must- haves that will help any savvy sexi sophisticate navigate their way through every day modern life. From Nars to Clinique to Jack Black, you’ll only find the best of the best contenders here...

black lotus Best Shave- Sensitive SkinKiehl’s Close-Shavers Shaving Formula #31-0Fellas- this is the cure-all for those of you with sensitive skin- those of you whom suffer from ingrown hair, razor bumps or just plain tough hair. Oh, and this is perfect for creative shaving (but please, no names in the beard!)29.50

black lotus Best Body Fix-it- Manly Body CleanserSanta Maria Novella Russian Soap for MenA black lotus favorite! Make a modernstatement of style with perfect grooming and sophistication. Made using old-century soap making techniques, each bar lasts about three times longer thanother soaps. Milk-based formula imparts a spicy, rugged scent that is gentle andmoisturizing.60.00

black lotus Best BodyMoisturizer- Manly Body MoisturizerSanta MariaNovella Body Milk for MenA must have for men- can transform the mostdesert-parched skin into supple, nourished skin. It’s the ultimate after-sportrefresher.72.00

black lotusBest Eye Fix-It- Manly Eye CreamKiehl’s Eye AlertA black lotus favorite! So men sometimes need a little help too with theunder-eye area. And this one can be used without being too emasculating. Itcools and soothes to reduce puffiness and dark circles after a long night ofclubbing, ballin, studying, jet fighting- whatever…20.00

black lotus Best Shave- ToolThe Art of Shaving Pure Badger BrushThere is absolutely nothingsexier than a man who takes interest and applies fine art into his dailyroutine, especially with something as rugged as shaving-this brush uses thefinest badger hair available and helps generate a rich, warm lather. Helps openthe pores, bring water to the skin and exfoliate.

50.00

black lotus Best Body Fix-it-Manly Body GelLab Series for Men Ab Rescue BodySculpting GelBecause you think about it too…. This energizing formulahelps tighten, tone and smooth the skin on the abdomen.30.00

black lotus best bronzer powder:Nars Bronzing PowderEvery sexi lass needs tohave 2 bronzers- one shade for the summer, and one for the winter. Take that andmultiple it by two- keep on in the makeup bag and one in the car (yes, it’s thatserious) and you’ve got all your bases covered. Nars is known for creating thesexiest shades ever- and with these golden shimmers, you’ll create a warm glowand addnatural dimensions to your face. 28.00 2 shades

black lotus best bronzing liquid:NarsBody GlowThis luxurious liquid imparts a chocolate shimmer for glowing,soft, healthy skin with scents reminiscent of your childhood vacations in Tahiti(what…didn’t we all go to Tahiti for childhood vacations?)59.00

black lotus best powderblush:Nars BlushIt’s incredibly hard to choose between whichNars blush is our favorite- so we won’t. But we will recommend that shadesOrgasm, Lovejoy, Amour, and Deep Throat find their way into your makeup bag. Thecolor goes on sheer,(for a natural blush), but are perfect for layering for amore intense look. 25.00 26 shades

black lotus Best Fix- It for Brows:Benefit Cosmetics Brow ZingsYour brows frameyour face- so it is incredibly important that you not only maintain the shape ofyour brows with tweezing, waxing, threading or whatever your method, but alsowith application. This is one of the best kits available- Extend, fill-in andshape brows with this brow wax and powder.28.00 3 shades

black lotus Best Everyday Mascara:Benefit Cosmetics BADgal LashLadies- mascarais the key to life…um, great eyes. One of the many brands of mascara to gracethese pages, this formula is made in such a way that its similar to very falseeyelashes- without the false eyelashes.19.00

black lotus Best Foundation Primer:Laura Mercier Foundation PrimerA black lotusfavorite! Use this to prime the face prior to foundation and concealer, andyou’re one step closer to the flawless face. This comes in regular, hydratingand oil-free.30.00

black lotus Best Foundation for the FlawlessFaceLaura Mercier FoundationThis is yellow-based so that itwill help create that “no-makeup” look. Can be applied sheerly or layered anddeposited where you need it. Perfect. Oil free and moisturizing.40.00 12shades

black lotus Best SettingPowder:Dermablend Setting PowderAn absolutemust if you want the wearability and smudge- resistance (yes, we saidsmudge-resistance!) of Dermablend.19.00 3 shades

black lotus Best Body Makeup:Dermablend Leg & Body Cover CrèmeUsethis with the setting powder and you can run, swim, and play without anyworries. Will not come off until YOU decide.18.00 16 shades

black lotus Best Super LuxuriousMascara:Fusion Beauty Lash FusionWith allthe noise around this mascara- we had to try it-and boy were we pleased!All-in-one system lengthens, conditions and plumps. And its weather-, water-,and smudge-proof. Worth the price.39.00 2 shades

black lotus Best Eyeshadow:Stila Eye Shadow PanWe recommendindividualized eye shadow pans (placed in compact- sold separately) by Stila-you can pick out only the shades you obsess over and these will never crease andalways look fabulous. Use wet or dry.14.0 50 shades

black lotus Best Fix-it Face:Zeno Pro Acne Clearing DeviceZeno is ahand-held, battery powered medical device that zaps pimples so that theydisappear within 24 hours. Use when you first notice signs of a breakout, andadminister 2-3 2.5 minute cycles. Voila! 185.00

black lotus Best Oily SkinMoisturizer:Philosophy Hope in a BottleDaily oil-free moisturizer for normal to oily skin. The salicylic acidcontain within helps enhance skin texture and appearance.35.00

black lotus Best Hair- Flat Iron:T3 Tourmaline Professional Ionic Iron with Rounded PlatesA blacklotus favorite! T3 irons are the fastest heating, most ionic and most infraredfor true curling and straightening and results that last longer. A must haveladies.160.00

black lotus Best Smile Fix-it:Go Smile Elixir Good-for-you Breath FreshenerPerfect size for walking- this freshen breath by creating an optimal pHbalance inside the mouth- just mist 2x three times a day.19.00-29.00

happiness...your way“If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy and inspires your hopes.”--Andrew Carnegie

Is it this simple? Were Happiness this accessible it would seem most people would be impassioned and actualized by now, no? This, of course, is not the case. We’ve all seen the languid motions taken by Victims of Dreams Deferred, their cooling Starbucks and less-than-séxi briefcases in hand…Someone told them Happiness was something achieved once they implemented certain traditional steps, and they believed the misguided soul.—Only to find a persistent void...

Insert Challenge: For a moment, believe: happiness is whatsoever satisfies your life’s passion. Following this affirmation, make it your personal mission to discover what is driving the energy to become who you are destined to be. Travel, pursue knowledge relentlessly, absorb the energy of the Liberated, make time for your hobbies, create opportunities for yourself to be challenged—when you begin to find that which inspires you, perpetuate it!

There is no time limit on this discovery, but if explored with diligence, you will find Purpose sooner than later…Do acknowledge; the answers reside within you Sophisticate. You are the only person who knows the extent of your capabilities; it is you alone who is confounded with the pressing desire for more. Shouldn't it be you then who makes self-exploration your life’s priority? --Accessing Happiness may in fact be this simple…